Ssanggye Tea

Ssanggye Tea represents more than half a century of Korean tea craftsmanship, beginning its journey in 1966 when tea master Mr. Kim envisioned putting Korean tea on the global map. This ambitious dream materialized into Ssanggye Tea Co., Ltd. in 1975, establishing its roots in Hwagae, Hadong-gun, Gyeongsangnam-do.

Hadong holds special significance as the heart of Korean tea culture, offering a unique terroir that shapes the character of Ssanggye’s teas. The company didn’t merely open a business—they became guardians of this ancient heritage, specializing in handmade green and fermented teas that honor traditional Korean methods.

The connection to Ssanggye Temple adds profound historical depth to the brand’s story. According to Dr. Lee Sun-keun, this temple represents Korea’s first tea farm, linking the company to the very origins of Korean tea cultivation. This heritage is preserved and celebrated through their tea museum in Hadong, which serves as a living tribute to the region’s rich tea history.

What distinguishes Ssanggye from modern tea operations is their unwavering commitment to traditional farming and harvesting methods. While many farms have adopted mechanized processes for efficiency, Ssanggye continues to rely on skilled farmers who harvest by hand, personally inspecting each batch for color, aroma, and taste. The timing of harvest remains crucial—leaves are picked when there are three to five sprouts at exactly the right size, balancing yield with optimal quality.

Their Korean Green Tea Powder represents a unique interpretation of matcha, offering a lighter, more refreshing taste with a smoother texture compared to Japanese varieties. This ceremonial grade powder reflects their commitment to quality over quantity, crafted from 100% organically grown tea leaves nurtured without pesticides or chemical fertilizers.